Meningitis refers to an infection of themeninges, the membranes that surround and protect the spinal cord and brain.
It can be sparked by a viral illness or certain bacteria.
Bacterial meningitis is a life-threatening emergency.
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A meningitis rash typically looks like pinpricks or bruises, which may be red or dark purple.
This rash doesnt fade when you press a glass against it.
This damage causes the rash often associated with severe cases of meningitis.
A Word From Verywell
The best way to prevent meningitis is to get vaccinated.
What Does a Meningitis Rash Look Like?
Meningitis rashes are harder to see on darker skin.
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It involves pressing a glass against the affected area of the skin and seeing if the rash goes away.
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If it doesnt, you or your child may have a non-blanching rash due to meningitis.
It is a sign that you or your loved one needs emergency medical care.
How a Meningitis Rash Is Diagnosed
Its not always easy to diagnose meningitis right away.
Meningitis can be treated with:
Whos at Risk for Meningitis?
In severe cases, meningitis can also lead to limb loss.
This could lead to tissue death and require theamputationof one or more limbs.
Other potential complications of meningitis may include:
Is Meningitis Contagious?
While meningococcal bacteriacan be spread through saliva, meningitis isnt usually as contagious as other viral illnesses.
Vaccinations are also available to prevent some types of bacterial meningitis.
What Other Rashes Look Like Meningitis?
Call 911 or go to the hospital right away.
Its important to remember that not everyone with meningitis will develop a rash.
Some people may not develop one, while others might have a milder version or one that looks atypical.
The rash is distinctive, often like clusters of pinpricks or large bruises.
Its typically a non-blanching rash, meaning that it maintains its appearance even when you press something against it.
However, it can present in many different ways.
Meningitis is a life-threatening condition.
Meningitis Research Foundation.What is the meningitis rash?
National Health Service.Meningitis - symptoms.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Meningococcal disease diagnosis and treatment.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Meningococcal disease risk factors.
National Health Service.Meningitis - complications.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Meningococcal disease causes and how it spreads.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Hives: Causes.
